1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454

Buzz

©2007 Publications International, Ltd. While small-block V-8s became more aligned with the era, the 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 stood firm as a symbol of big-block muscle car dominance. Check out additional muscle car images.

The 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 delivered quarter-mile times in the low 14-second range, a performance that needed no excuses. However, it paled slightly compared to the previous year, when the top Chevelle muscle cars achieved low 13s. Chevrolet, like the rest of Detroit, was grappling with a rapidly shifting automotive landscape.

New emissions regulations necessitated a shift to low-lead fuel, reducing compression ratios, while insurance premiums on high-performance vehicles led to more conservative power-to-weight ratios. These changes were evident in the 1971 Chevelle SS lineup, which reintroduced small-block engines in the form of two 350-cid V-8s: a 245-bhp two-barrel and a 270-bhp four-barrel.

However, big-block engines remained an option. The 402-cid four-barrel, priced at $173, delivered 300 bhp, a 50 bhp drop from the previous year's base SS engine. To maintain the iconic SS 396 branding, Chevrolet had labeled the 1970 402 as a "396." For 1971, it was rebranded as the "Turbo Jet 400."

©2007 Publications International, Ltd. The LS5 454 was an additional $279 for the SS package. It produced 365 bhp and was installed in 9,502 of the 19,293 Chevelle SS models (including El Caminos) Chevrolet produced in 1971.

Chevrolet had teased enthusiasts with the possibility of the legendary 454-cid LS6 returning for 1971. With a modest 9.0:1 compression ratio, it was expected to deliver a still-impressive 425 bhp. However, it was never made available to the public. Instead, the hydraulic-lifter LS5 returned as a $279 upgrade on top of the standard SS package.

Compression dropped to 8.5:1 from 10.25:1, yet output rose by five horsepower to 365, though it peaked 600 rpm lower than in 1970. Torque decreased by 35 lb-ft. The LS5 was paired with either the Turbo Hydra-matic 400 or the M22 Rock Crusher four-speed transmission, with 3.31:1 gears as standard and an optional 4.10:1 Posi rear end.

©2007 Publications International, Ltd. The SS package featured upgraded suspension, power front disc brakes, and stylish five-spoke wheels. Additional options included racing stripes and a cowl-induction hood.

The standard SS package offered significant value for its $357 price tag, featuring the F41 suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars, power front disc brakes, wider F60 tires mounted on 15-inch five-spoke wheels, and a blackout grille. All Chevelles were equipped with single headlamps borrowed from the Monte Carlo, and the SS could be enhanced with optional racing stripes and a Cowl Induction hood available at an additional cost.

Notably, only LS5-equipped models displayed external engine identification, with badges reading "SS 454." All other models bore simple "SS" emblems, a clear reflection of the era's changing priorities.

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The 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454

Specifications

Wheelbase, inches: 112.0

Weight, lbs: 4,000

Number built: 9,502

Base price: $4,000

Standard Engine

Type: ohv V-8

Displacement, cid: 454

Fuel system: 1 x 4bbl.

Compression ratio: 8.5:1

Horsepower @ rpm: 365 @ 4800